Terrorism is not something new in Pakistan. It is rather deep-rooted in the country. In the last few years, terrorist activities have intensified due to a variety of reasons. Suicide-bombings and cross-border terrorism have become the new normal. The provinces of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) happen to be the worst victims of this new wave of terrorism.

Terrorism, as is well known, has far-reaching repercussions. It tends to make a country unsafe for foreign investors, and that eventually leads to low foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows. It also impacts the country’s diplomatic relations with friendly nations, especially in the region. Besides, terrorism creates a sense of insecurity among the citizens which eventually triggers brain drain.

There is a dire need to eradicate the root causes behind terrorism in Pakistan. Investment in human resource is crucial in this regard. The state must reconsider all its policies towards terrorists, and should address the concerns of the people, especially in Balochistan and KP.

Zahid Ali Khoso
Lahore

Published in Dawn, August 30th, 2024